WESTBURY, NY (WCBS 880) – We usually accept that, on certain days of the year, virtually everything is closed. Well, one company’s decision to open its businesses is causing controversy on Long Island.

The grocery workers union calls the decision by A&P/Pathmark to open some of its stores on Christmas day Grinch-like.

United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 1500 cited the stress of the companies ongoing bankruptcy and urged “that as this very difficult year draws to a close, now more than ever, we should respect and welcome a day off for reflection and uninterrupted time with friends and family.”

Store management says it’s based on a commitment to serve its diverse community.

“Christmas should be a day for family, to be home with the family,” said one customer on Tuesday morning.

However, most WCBS 880 Long Island Bureau Chief Mike Xirinachs spoke with defended the Christmas day opening.